Black History Month is an annual celebration in the United States that takes place every February to honor the achievements and history of African Americans. It was first established in 1926 as "Negro History Week" by the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, which declared the second week of February as a time to recognize the contributions of African Americans to U.S. history. The week-long event officially became Black History Month in 1976 when U.S. President Gerald Ford extended the recognition to "honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history".

Black History Month honors all Black people from all periods of U.S. history, from the enslaved people first brought over from Africa in the early 17th century to African Americans living in the United States today. It celebrates the rich cultural heritage, triumphs, and adversities that are an indelible part of the countrys history. The month-long observance highlights the important contributions of Black individuals in society and recognizes their essential impact on American history and culture.

During Black History Month, notable figures in African American history are often spotlighted, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall, Mae Jemison, and Barack Obama. The celebration also includes events, programs, and tours honoring the African American experience, such as exhibits at the Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, and National Park Service.

The theme for Black History Month changes every year, and in 2022, it was "Black Health and Wellness," which paid homage to medical scholars and health care providers. The theme was especially timely as the country entered the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disproportionately affected minority communities and placed unique burdens on Black health care professionals.

In summary, Black History Month is an annual celebration in the United States that takes place every February to honor the achievements and history of African Americans. It was first established in 1926 as "Negro History Week" and officially became Black History Month in 1976. The celebration honors all Black people from all periods of U.S. history and recognizes their essential impact on American history and culture. The month-long observance includes events, programs, and tours honoring the African American experience.